How does the New York CNA exam work?
Updated · Reviewed against official sources
New York's nurse aide competency exam has two parts you must pass: a knowledge test (written, or oral if you choose — federal rules require that option) and a hands-on skills test. New York State Department of Health names Prometric as the testing vendor. Passing gets you listed on the New York nurse aide registry.
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Credential | Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) | NYS Department of Health — Nurse Aide Registry |
| State agency | New York State Department of Health (Nursing Home Nurse Aide Registry) | Official page |
| Testing vendor | Prometric | NYS Department of Health — Nurse Aide Registry |
| Written test | 60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes | New York Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (Prometric) |
| Oral option | Available; the bulletin explains how the oral version differs in length and time | New York Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (Prometric) |
| Clinical skills test | 5 skills | New York Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (Prometric) |
| Oral option | Yes — you may choose an oral exam instead of written | 42 CFR 483.154 |
| Attempts | At least three opportunities (state may set further rules) | 42 CFR 483.154 |
Your state's nurse aide candidate handbook is the authority on exam format, skills lists and scoring. This page explains the general picture and links the official sources.
Steps to get certified in New York
- Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program (federal minimum: 75 clock hours including 16 supervised practical hours), unless your state accepts another route.
- Apply and schedule your exam through the testing program described in the New York candidate handbook.
- Pass the knowledge test (written or oral) and the skills test.
- Confirm your listing on the New York nurse aide registry before you start work.
What's specific to New York
The New York bulletin contains the official clinical skills list and checklists. See what clinical skills are tested in New York.
How to prepare
The knowledge test covers standard nurse aide topics: residents' rights, infection control, safety, personal care, basic nursing skills, communication, mental health, the aide's role, vital signs and nutrition. Take the free 20-question practice test to see your weakest topics, rehearse every skill with our skills checklists, and do a timed full exam the week before.
Quick answers
- NY CNA written exam: how many questions?
- The current New York bulletin lists 60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes for the written exam. Check the latest bulletin before test day.
- What are the NY CNA clinical skills they test?
- You perform 5 skills from the list in the New York bulletin. See NY clinical skills list.
- How does the NY CNA oral exam option work?
- The questions are read to you instead of read on your own; the bulletin explains how to request it and how the timing differs. See oral exam and accommodations.
- Can I take the New York CNA exam orally?
- Yes. Federal rules require that candidates can choose an oral exam instead of the written one. The candidate handbook explains how to request it.
- How many times can I take the New York CNA exam?
- Federal rules guarantee at least three opportunities to pass the competency evaluation; check the handbook for retest fees, waiting periods and retraining rules.
What to do next
Find your weak topics before New York test day — free, no sign-up, about 15 minutes.
Take the free practice testRelated
Other states
Sources
- NYS Department of Health — Nurse Aide Registry
- New York Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (Prometric)
- 42 CFR 483.154 — Nurse aide competency evaluation (Cornell LII)
- 42 CFR 483.152 — Nurse aide training requirements (Cornell LII)
Checked: . Rules, fees and vendors change — always confirm with your state's official page and candidate handbook.